Chelsea today denied reports that former manager Avram Grant could return to the club in an advisory capacity.

Grant, 57, had been linked with a dramatic return to Stamford Bridge to help steady the ship after Rafa Benitez failed to win one of his first three matches in charge.

"There is no truth in reports that Avram Grant will be returning to the club," said a spokesman

Grant had also served as Director of Football and took charge after Jose Mourinho was sacked in 2007. Under the guidance of the Israeli, Chelsea reached the finals of both the Champions League and League Cup.

He has since managed Portsmouth and West Ham, both of whom were relegated. His last post was at Partizan Belgrade which he vacated in May.